The White-bellied Heron is one of the most endangered birds in all the world. It lives in riverine and wetland habitats in Bhutan, Northeast India, Myanmar and China. This bird is very sensitive to changes in its habitat. Any strange noises or activity will cause it to fly away and search for a more peaceful stretch of river. The construction of dams, the cutting of trees, and hunting and trapping by humans are all threats to this species. Man-caused flooding of water bodies also makes it harder for these birds to find and catch fish. No one knows for sure how many White-bellied Herons remain, but there are perhaps only between 50 and 250 birds left in the entire world. Many people are working to save this species. You can help by learning more about the White-bellied Heron and sharing what you learn with family and friends.

We hope this book will serve as an inspiration to help protect the White-bellied Heron and all of Bhutan’s wildlife and wild places.